| This time of year many of us get upper respiratory infections more commonly known as colds and flu. Often we ask our physicians for antibiotics to treat these infections. However, antibiotics are generally not necessary for the infections. Research has shown that about half of antibiotic prescriptions are unnecessary.
The American College of Physicians and the CDC have issued guidelines for acute uncomplicated bronchitis, pharyngitis (sore throat), rhinosinusitis (sinus infections), and the common cold. This is published in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
(Did You Know? The reason for not using antibiotics is that viruses are responsible for these infections and do not respond to antibiotics. Also, antibiotics are losing their efficacy because of unnecessary use.)
For the common cold, doctors are recommended not to prescribe antibiotics and focus on treating symptoms with additional treatments considered if symptoms continue for more than two weeks.
Patients with uncomplicated bronchitis should not receive antibiotics unless they have pneumonia.
Patients with sore throats and uncomplicated sinus infections should also receive supportive care as they will generally improve with this form of treatment.
By Stephen Feller, UPI.com
Healthy living,
Peter McKenna, M.D.
513.793.5772
www.mckennamd.com
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